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ADHD and Gambling Online: Tips to Avoid Problem Gaming

Published

2 years ago

October 26, 2023

adhd-and-gambling-online:-tips-to-avoid-problem-gaming

Reading Time: 4 minutes

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by persistent patterns of inattention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity. While these symptoms can pose challenges in various aspects of life, one area that is often overlooked is the potential link between ADHD and gambling.

Online gambling platforms have made it easier than ever for individuals to engage in gambling activities. From online casinos to sports betting, these platforms offer a variety of gambling options that can be accessed anytime, anywhere. However, for individuals with ADHD, the easy accessibility and fast pace of online gambling can pose a significant risk.

The thrill of online gambling can be particularly enticing for individuals with ADHD. The fast-paced nature of online games and the immediate gratification of winning can trigger a rush of dopamine, a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and reward. This can momentarily help them feel more focused and the brain just wants more, leading to a cycle of gambling to chase that feeling of reward.

The Intersection of ADHD and Gambling

ADHD affects approximately 5% of children and about 2.5% of adults globally. On the other hand, problem gambling, also known as gambling addiction, affects about 1-3% of the population. Interestingly, studies have shown a higher prevalence of gambling problems among people with ADHD compared to the general population.

A study published in the Journal of Attention Disorders in 2016 found that adults with ADHD were almost three times more likely to have problem gambling behaviors. This correlation suggests that the impulsivity and risk-taking behavior often associated with ADHD may contribute to a higher propensity for gambling problems.

The Role of Impulsivity in Problem Gambling

Impulsivity, a common symptom of ADHD, is also a key factor in problem gambling. It’s the tendency to act on a whim, without thinking of the consequences: grab casino bonuses with unfavorable conditions, sign up for unlicensed casinos, take small loans to take part in gambling, etc.

A 2017 study in the journal “Psychiatry Research” found that impulsivity was a significant predictor of problem gambling among individuals with ADHD. The study also suggested that interventions targeting impulsivity could be beneficial in treating gambling problems in this population.

The Impact of ADHD Medication on Gambling

ADHD is commonly treated with stimulant medications like methylphenidate and amphetamines. While these medications can help manage ADHD symptoms, their impact on gambling behavior is less clear.

Some research suggests that ADHD medication could potentially exacerbate gambling problems. A study in the Journal of Clinical Psychopharmacology in 2015 found that a group of patients on ADHD medication had higher rates of gambling disorder. However, more research is needed in this area to draw definitive conclusions.

Recognizing Problematic Gambling Behaviors

Recognizing the signs of problematic gambling is crucial for individuals with ADHD. According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5), someone could have a gambling disorder if at least four of the following have been true for that person within the past year:

A need to gamble with an increasing amount of money to get the same level of excitement.
Feeling restless or irritable when not gambling or gambling less.
Unable to cut back or stop gambling, even when trying.
Thinks a lot about gambling, remembering good experiences and planning future gambling activities.
Gambles to relieve stress, anxiety, depression, or guilt.
Chases losses, which means gambling more after losing to try and make up for the loss.
Lies about gambling activity to cover it up.
Has lost a job, significant opportunity, or had a relationship end because of gambling.
Asks other people for money to clear up financial problems caused by gambling.

Tips for Managing ADHD and Gambling

For those living with ADHD and choosing to gamble, it’s crucial to have strategies in place to manage the increased risk of developing a gambling problem. Here are some tips:

Practice taking a pause before you act: Make a plan with yourself that you will pause before starting to gamble. During this time, ask yourself questions, e.g., “How will this play out if I gamble right now? Is this the right move for me?” Building this pause-and-reflect muscle is particularly helpful with ADHD.

Set limits with your gambling: Use the tools available on many online websites to set a time or spending limit. Discuss your limits with someone supportive.

Get to know your “brand” of ADHD: Understand how ADHD affects you and your particular patterns with gambling. Figure out your risky times to gamble and how to manage them.

Seeking Help

If you or a loved one is dealing with ADHD and a gambling problem, it’s important to seek help. Medical professionals can customize a treatment plan that works for you, and a therapist can provide coping mechanisms. Many problem gamblers with ADHD have successfully controlled their gambling by planning each of their days to cut down on their impulsivity.

Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), a common treatment for gambling addiction, can be particularly effective. CBT helps individuals change unhealthy gambling behaviors and thoughts, such as the belief that gambling can solve their financial problems.

In addition to seeking help for ADHD, you can also get assistance in managing your gambling behavior from professionals. There are numerous resources available, including hotlines, support groups, and counseling services. Remember, you’re not alone, and help is available.

Use Tools and Apps

There are various tools and apps available that can help manage online gambling. These include apps that block access to gambling websites.

One of the most effective strategies for managing ADHD and online gambling is to set limits. This includes setting a budget for how much money can be spent on gambling and sticking to it. It also involves setting time limits for how long one can gamble in a single session.

Join Support Groups

Support groups can provide a safe space to share experiences and learn from others who are facing similar challenges. These groups can offer valuable insights and strategies for managing ADHD and online gambling.

Conclusion

The connection between ADHD and online gambling is a significant concern that requires awareness and proactive management. By recognizing the signs of problematic gambling, setting limits, seeking professional help, using tools and apps, and joining support groups, individuals with ADHD can navigate the world of online gambling safely and responsibly.

2025 Global Regulatory Awards

Vixio Announces Winners for the 2025 Global Regulatory Awards

Published

35 minutes ago

November 20, 2025

George Miller

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Reading Time: 2 minutes

Vixio, a leading provider of regulatory intelligence solutions, unveiled its 2025 Global Regulatory Awards (GRAs) winners last night during an event in London.

More than 300 industry leaders, regulatory experts, and esteemed professionals of the global gambling industry attended the prestigious event. The independently judged GRAs recognise and celebrate the achievements of individuals, teams, and organisations in the gambling industry who have excelled in compliance, corporate social responsibility, and safer gambling.

The ninth annual awards ceremony recognised winners across 22 categories.
Notable winners on the evening included Playtech, Casino Guru, and Kambi.

Vixio also recognised outstanding individuals, such as Bill Curtis of DraftKings, named Compliance Professional of the Year, Corinne Valletta of Betsson Group, awarded Chief Compliance Officer of the Year, and Wes Himes, who was recognised with the Special Award for Compliance Lifetime Achievement.

“Thank you to everyone who joined us at last night’s Global Regulatory Awards in London,” stated Mike Woolfrey, CEO of Vixio. “This year has seen significant regulatory change across the industry, making the quality of entries even more impressive. Our independent judges did a fantastic job in selecting the winners, who truly represent the highest standards in regulatory compliance. Congratulations to all, and we look forward to welcoming you to the 10th annual Global Regulatory Awards next year!”

Awards were presented by category sponsors: Docaposte, DraftKings, eCOGRA, Gaming Associates and White Bullet.

The award evening was associate-sponsored by: Greentube, San Manuel Tribal Gaming Commission, Scientific Games, and Soft2Bet.

The 2026 Global Regulatory Awards presentation will celebrate the 10th annual GRA event and is set to take place on November 18th, returning to the historic Grand Connaught Rooms in Central London.

The official 2025 winners are as follows:

AML or MLR Professional of the Year
Eleni Panagiotopoulou, SOFTSWISS

Award for Commitment to Compliance by a Supplier
GeoComply

Award for Commitment to Compliance by an Operator
Tipico Games

Chief Compliance Officer of the Year
Corinne Valletta, Betsson Group

Compliance Innovator of the Year
Sharp Vision

Compliance Lifetime Achievement Special Award
Wes Himes

Compliance Professional of the Year
Bill Curtis, DraftKings

Compliance Rising Star Special Award
Medisha Moodley, Games Global

Compliance Team of the Year
Playtech

Head of Regulatory Affairs or Government Relations of the Year
Devon Dalbock, GLI

Legal Team of the Year
Kambi

Marketing Compliance Team of the Year
Catena Media

Outstanding Contribution to Safer Gambling
Casino Guru

Outstanding Contribution to Sports Betting Integrity
ALTENAR

Outstanding Individual Contribution to Safer Gambling
Dr. Michael Auer, Neccton

Payment Service or Solution Provider of the Year
Paysafe

RegTech Provider of the Year
Mindway AI

Regulatory Initiative of the Year
Gambling Regulatory Authority (URHH SK)

Regulatory Law Firm of the Year
Bird & Bird

Regulatory Lawyer or In-House Counsel of the Year
Behnam Dayanim, Orrick Herrington & Sutcliffe LLP

Responsible Gambling Service or Solution Provider of the Year
BetBlocker

Testing Service or Solution Provider of the Year
BMM Innovation Group

The post Vixio Announces Winners for the 2025 Global Regulatory Awards appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.

BGaming

Feel the Chill in BGaming’s Divine Queen: Heart of Ice

Published

35 minutes ago

November 20, 2025

George Miller

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Reading Time: 2 minutes

Rapidly expanding content provider puts you in the presence of royalty in Divine Queen: Heart of Ice

Popular iGaming content provider BGaming invites players to wrap up warm and explore an icy kingdom in Divine Queen: Heart of Ice. Watch the wins snowball in this Olympus-genre pay-anywhere game.

Divine Queen: Heart of Ice pulls inspiration from the iconic Bonanza gameplay mechanics, repackaging them in a winter retro style. The game’s cinematic visuals, combined with a mesmerising soundtrack, help immerse players in this frosty, beautiful world.

The Ice Queen herself also graces players with her presence. This stunning character stands to the right of the game grid, watching over the reels as they spin. She appears as the game’s Scatter symbol and is the key to the Free Spins bonus.

Her carefully curated design should appeal to European and US audiences, while the game’s winter theme makes it accessible year-round.

Players will find the Multiplier Reel on the right of the grid in Divine Queen: Heart of Ice. This starts at x1 and progresses by one with each winning cascade. The multiplier does not reset during the free spins bonus, helping the wins to pile up. Players can also use the Buy Bonus feature to enter the Free Spins round and gain instant access to the action.

The bonus features are not the only magic conjured up in Divine Queen: Heart of Ice. The slot serves up a tantalising maximum win of x5,000, and rounds out an impressive maths model with an attractive 97% RTP.

Ruslan Shakhlovich, Game Designer at BGaming, said, The game has been designed to be highly engaging, with progressive mechanics and a proven math model that will keep players returning. Divine Queen: Heart of Ice arrives just in time for the winter months, and we are confident it will do an excellent job of distracting players from the cold.”

The post Feel the Chill in BGaming’s Divine Queen: Heart of Ice appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.

Blueprint Gaming

Blueprint Gaming unwraps a trio of festive favourites with three iconic series reimagined for Christmas

Published

2 hours ago

November 20, 2025

George Miller

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Reading Time: 2 minutes

Blueprint Gaming is kicking off the festive season with the launch of Saint Nicked 3 Present Tense, the first of three Christmas-themed releases that see some of its most iconic series reimagined with charming festive visuals, enriched graphics and immersive seasonal experiences designed to delight operator player bases worldwide.

The yuletide rollout continues in December with Fishin’ Frenzy The Big Christmas Catch Jackpot King arriving on 4th December, followed by the blockbuster release of Kong Even Bigger Christmas on 11th December.

Launching today, Saint Nicked 3 Present Tense captivates with its mischievous festive flair, featuring enhanced Christmas aesthetics across its characters and classic money collects. The beloved duo make a snow-dusted comeback, complete with upgraded visual effects and seasonal touches that amplify engagement throughout the holiday period.

On 4^th December, players will then be reintroduced to one of the industry’s most recognisable franchises with Fishin’ Frenzy The Big Christmas Catch Jackpot King.

The festive reinvention blends the timeless simplicity and broad appeal of the original series with a fully re-themed winter environment, combining frosty settings and holiday-inspired symbols with Blueprint’s iconic Jackpot King progressive system.

The newly introduced Express Bet also provides players with an optional festive surprise. Available at 1.5x the total bet, the feature doubles the chance of triggering bonus play. The result is a high-performing seasonal variant tailored to boost operator performance in December.

Blueprint rounds off its Christmas trilogy on 11th December with the arrival of Kong Even Bigger Christmas, transforming the studio’s epic Ape-powered franchise into a snow-covered festive spectacle.

Across all three launches, Blueprint Gaming reinforces its strategy of refreshing its strongest collections of titles with reimagined releases that stay true to their signature gameplay, while offering operators new opportunities to elevate their offerings during one of the busiest periods of the calendar year.

Jo Purvis, Director of Marketing, PR and Events at Blueprint Gaming, said: “Our Christmas trilogy brings together some of Blueprint’s most iconic series, each lovingly reimagined with festive charm, refreshed graphics and engaging seasonal features. These titles give operators the perfect opportunity to offer players familiar favourites wrapped in magic, warmth and a sense of festive fun.

“Saint Nicked 3: Present Tense sets the tone, with Fishin’ Frenzy The Big Christmas Catch Jackpot King and Kong Even Bigger Christmas continuing the momentum through December. It’s a line-up designed to elevate seasonal engagement and deliver standout entertainment across the holidays.”

The post Blueprint Gaming unwraps a trio of festive favourites with three iconic series reimagined for Christmas appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.